ABERDEEN Jazz Festival will return this year as organisers have revealed the full line-up promising “electrifying” performances from some of the world’s best talent.
The Jazz festival will take place in the Granite City for the 22nd time in March with organisers saying visitors can expect a rich and diverse celebration of the music genre, ranging from soulful vocalists to avant-garde ensembles.
Spanning 11 days with more than 30 events across nine venues the 2025 programme will “inspire” audiences with a packed line-up including performances from Jazz FM’s UK Jazz Act of the Year Georgia Cecile and the return of Neil Cowley Trio after a seven-year hiatus.
Produced by Jazz Scotland and supported by funding through Creative Scotland, the festival will also host community-focused events alongside live music.
Coralie Usmani, artistic director and CEO of Jazz Scotland, said the festival is a celebration of jazz in all its forms.
She said: "We’re so excited to bring this year’s Aberdeen Jazz Festival to life. It’s a programme that celebrates the richness and diversity of jazz - where tradition meets innovation, and where jazz continues to evolve. This year’s programme brings together bold new voices, legendary artists, and unique collaborations that push creative boundaries.”
Other highlights from the festival include the internationally renowned Portable Infinity, featuring an all-star lineup including Magnus Ostrom, as they launch the start of the European tour in Aberdeen.
This year’s programme also includes a live music collaboration with City Moves and their Dance for Parkinson's classes and there will also be free lunchtime concerts at venues such as Cowdray Hall and Middlefield Community Centre.
Along with a packed line-up of international artists festival organisers said the 11-day festival also aims to promote some of Scotland’s top talent too as there will be performances from the Aberdeen Jazz Festival Orchestra along with a youth ensemble.
Simon Gall, development director of Jazz Scotland, has encouraged everyone to get involved as “even the youngest” music fans can discover a love for the genre at the festival.
He said: “We’re delighted to launch this year’s festival programme, which offers an incredible mix of artists, styles, and experiences. From stalwart jazzers to nu-jazz experimenters, jazz-folk innovators to hip-hop-infused ensembles, there’s something for every listener to enjoy.
“Beyond the concerts, the festival is a space for learning, collaboration, and participation—whether through workshops, jam sessions, or performing in the Aberdeen Jazz Festival Orchestra.
“Even the youngest music fans can get involved through family-friendly daytime events. By catering to such a wide range of tastes and audiences, we hope the festival continues to inspire and bring people together through the joy of jazz.”
Aberdeen Jazz Festival runs from 13–23 March 2025 across multiple venues.
Click here for tickets and more information about the festival.
